Sounds pitcher chosen for Triple-A All-Star Game

In five professional seasons, Rob Wooten never has been called up to the big leagues.

But on Tuesday, the veteran pitcher was recognized as an all-star in the minor leagues.

Wooten, a right-handed pitcher for the Nashville Sounds, will play in the Triple-A All-Star Game on July 17 in Reno, Nev. He will represent the Pacific Coast League, which will play the International League.

Wooten is enjoying one of the best seasons of his career.

The 27-year-old leads the Sounds and is tied for second in the PCL with 17 saves (out of 20 opportunities). He is 0-1 with a 2.40 ERA in 33 relief appearances for the Sounds. He has struck out 41 while walking just nine in 45 innings. He also ranks second in the PCL in fewest walks per nine innings (0.60) and base runners per innings (8.8) and fourth in opposing batting average (.205).

This is the second mid-season honor for Wooten, who was named a Florida State League All-Star in 2009.

Wooten was drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in the 13th round of the 2008 draft after four years at North Carolina. He missed all of 2010 due to Tommy John surgery on his elbow. He made his Sounds debut last year.

Last week it was announced Sounds right-handed pitcher Jimmy Nelson was selected to play in the All-Star Futures Game on July 14 in New York.